Lemon bars, those delightful squares of tangy sweetness, have been a beloved treat in many households, especially since their rise to popularity in mid-20th century America. Traditionally, these bars combine a buttery shortbread crust with a zesty lemon filling, offering a perfect balance of rich and refreshing flavors in every bite. However, making them from scratch involves quite a few steps and ingredients, from preparing the crust to creating the lemon custard.
But what if I told you there’s a shortcut that delivers all the joy of lemon bars with just two ingredients? Yes, you heard that right! This simplified version is perfect for when you’re short on time but craving that classic lemon bar tang. It’s also a fantastic recipe for novice bakers looking to impress without the stress.
2-Ingredient Lemon Bars
Ingredients:
1 box of angel food cake mix (16 ounces)
1 can of lemon pie filling (21 ounces)
Instructions:
Preheat and Prep: Start by heating your oven to the temperature recommended on the angel food cake mix box, usually around 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure nothing sticks.
Mix: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the angel food cake mix and lemon pie filling. Stir together until the mixture is smooth and no dry spots remain.
Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula to even it out. Slide into the oven and bake as per the cake mix instructions, typically about 25 minutes, until the top is beautifully golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. This rest time helps them set up for perfect slicing.
Serve: Cut into your desired size of squares or rectangles. For an extra touch of elegance, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream on top can make these simple lemon bars feel like a gourmet treat.
These 2-ingredient lemon bars are a breeze to make and a pleasure to eat. They capture the essence of the traditional dessert with minimal effort, making them perfect for busy days or impromptu gatherings. Enjoy the burst of lemony freshness from your new favorite dessert, and revel in the simplicity and deliciousness of your creation!